Iria Beach: Tranquility and a 3,000-Year-Old Shipwreck

Iria is a small seaside village about 22 kilometers south of Nafplio, home to one of Argolida's largest and quietest beaches — roughly 3.5 kilometers long. If you're after genuine peace and quiet away from the crowds of more popular beaches, Iria is one of the best options in the area.

How to get there

Follow the road from Nafplio toward Epidaurus, via Tolo-Drepano-Kantia, all the way to Iria — plan for about half an hour by car. The beach lies within the village itself, with free parking along the coastal road.

What you'll find there

The beach combines sand with fine and coarse pebbles, with a sandy, shallow seabed in most spots — ideal for families with children. It's organized only in specific sections, with sunbeds, umbrellas, and showers, while cafés, bars, and tavernas serving fresh fish operate along its length. Tamarisk trees grow along the shore, where many people tie hammocks for a relaxing rest.

If you prefer solitude, the beach's large size means there are plenty of corners away from the organized sections — you'll never feel crowded.

A shipwreck from 1200 BC

Few people know that an ancient shipwreck dating back to around 1200 BC lies in the waters off Iria — a quiet reminder that these waters were a sea route as far back as the Mycenaean era, long before becoming today's destination for quiet family holidays.

A bit of history

Iria was originally founded by Cretan refugees during the time of Kapodistrias, and the area's ancient name was "Agrioi Limenes" (Wild Harbors). Today the village is split between the "Upper Village," where most houses are, and the beach itself.

Frequently asked questions

How far is Iria from Nafplio?
About 22 kilometers, roughly half an hour by car.

Is it a good beach for children?
Yes, the seabed is mostly sandy and shallow, ideal for families.

Is it fully organized?
Not along its entire length — only specific sections have sunbeds and umbrellas, leaving plenty of room for a quieter escape.

What does the ancient name "Agrioi Limenes" mean?
It was the ancient name of the area before Cretan refugees settled there during the Kapodistrias era and it took its current name.

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